On September 10, 2026, NVBDC hosted Preparing for Corporate Procurement Matchmaking, a special webinar designed to help veteran business owners prepare for the matchmaking and networking opportunities at the 2026 NVBDC National Conference—Mission: POSSIBLE.
The message was clear: Simply attending the conference is not enough. Preparation is what turns a conversation into an opportunity.
Know Who You Want to Meet
Before arriving at Mission: POSSIBLE, research the participating corporations and organizations. Identify the companies that align with your capabilities and understand what they purchase, the markets they serve and the challenges they may be facing.
Every veteran business owner should arrive knowing:
- Which corporations they want to meet
- What problems they can solve
- Why their company is different
- What they want to accomplish during each conversation
Strengthen Your Message
Corporate buyers need to quickly understand the value your business provides. Your 30-second introduction should clearly communicate:
- Who you help
- What problem you solve
- What differentiates your company
- The measurable results you deliver
Your capability statement, website, LinkedIn presence, case studies, testimonials and presentation materials should support the same message.
Make Matchmaking a Conversation
A matchmaking meeting should not be treated as a one-sided sales pitch. Be prepared to answer questions about your experience, scalability, compliance, qualifications and past performance—but also arrive with thoughtful questions for the buyer.
Ask about the corporation’s current priorities, supplier needs, contracting process and upcoming opportunities. Most importantly, conclude every conversation with a clear next step.
Follow Up Within 48 Hours
The conference does not end when you leave Detroit.
Document each contact, opportunity, pain point and action item immediately. Follow up within 48 hours with the information you promised and a proposed next step.
Corporate procurement is a long-term relationship-building process. Persistence, professionalism and consistent follow-through can turn an introduction made at Mission: POSSIBLE into an opportunity months—or even years—later.
Missed the Webinar?
Visit the NVBDC website to watch the webinar recording and download the presentation materials. Use these resources to prepare your business, strengthen your pitch and develop your matchmaking strategy before the conference.
Your Mission Starts Now
Join NVBDC at the 2026 NVBDC National Conference—Mission: POSSIBLE, October 4–6 at MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit.
Come prepared to participate in high-impact corporate matchmaking, educational sessions, panel discussions, breakout sessions, the Veteran Marketplace and valuable networking opportunities.
Come prepared. Make the introduction. Start the relationship.
Your next contract could begin with a conversation at Mission: POSSIBLE.
Click Here to watch the webinar and download the materials.
